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Pipeline Safety

More than 2.2 million miles of pipelines and mains quietly, reliably and efficiently deliver natural gas everyday for use by residential, commercial and industrial customers.

Almost all of the natural gas consumed in the United States is produced domestically and delivered via a transmission and distribution infrastructure that has an outstanding safety record.

Pipeline Markers

Whether you are at home, at work, or in a public place, it’s likely you are in an area served by natural gas pipelines. Since pipelines are underground, line markers are sometimes used to indicate their approximate location along their route. The markers display the material transported in the line, the name of the pipeline operator, and the telephone number where the operator can be reached in the event of an emergency. Markers only indicate the general location of a pipeline and cannot be relied upon to indicate the exact position. Because many lines are not marked, it is critical that you Call Before You Dig (800.922.4455) prior to any excavation.

Our Commitment to Safety

We work with industry groups to continually enhance natural gas pipeline safety and training methods. At the state level, we work with regulators on programs designed to ensure the safe operation of the natural gas distribution system for customers and residents. And, as new technologies are developed in natural gas pipeline design, construction, inspections, and operations, we will continue to invest in pipeline integrity programs that will allow for the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas.

Excess Flow Valve Notice

An Excess Flow Valves (EFV) is a device designed to shut off the flow of natural gas automatically if the service pipe breaks between the natural gas main in the street and the customer’s gas meter. Customers may request to have an EFV installed on their service if one does not already exist, and if the service allows for the proper installation of this device.

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FAQs

What do I need to know about pressure regulators and relief valves?

Pressure regulators and relief valves have a pressure relief vent that must be capable of venting gas safely to open air. When a pressure regulator is located inside a building the vent must be piped to an area outside of the building so if it operates it will vent safely to free air.

Can snow and ice create a safety problem for gas meter sets?

Yes. Snow and ice can block gas services valves and make it difficult for first responders to turn off the gas to a building in the event of a fire or gas leak. Pressure regulators and relief vents can also become blocked. If this occurs, an over-pressurization or under-pressurization could result I a hazardous condition for customers.

What should I do if I suspect a gas leak?

Use your senses to detect gas leaks. A natural gas leak is usually recognized by smell, sight, or sound. Remember, if you smell natural gas, get up, get out and call us immediately from a neighbor's phone.

Smell
Natural gas is colorless and odorless. For your safety, a distinctive, pungent odor, similar to rotten eggs, is added so that you'll recognize it quickly. Not all transmission lines are odorized.

Sight
You may see a white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water or blowing dust. You may also see vegetation that appears to be dead or dying for no apparent reason.

Sound
You may hear an unusual noise like roaring, hissing, or whistling.If you suspect a gas leak get up, go outside and call MNG from a neighbor's phone toll free at 800.513.8898 or call 911 for your local fire department. SCG will respond quickly to ensure that you and your family are safe.

Do not operate electrical switches or appliances. These items may produce a spark that might ignite the gas and cause an explosion.

Do not use a telephone.

Do not light a match or smoke and extinguish any open flames.

Do not assume someone else will report the condition.

Do not open windows and doors to ventilate the area.

Provide SCG with the exact location, including cross streets.

Let us know if sewer construction or digging activities are going on in the area.

Who do I contact if I need to dig on my property?

Can snow and ice cause a safety problem for gas appliances?

Yes. Most natural gas equipment vent from the roof but some vent from other parts of your home, such as the sidewall. Periodically check outside your home to make sure your furnace, water heater, dryer, or fireplace vents are not blocked by snow and/or ice.